Shocking rise in pets given as presents
PDSA is urging people to avoid giving pets as Christmas presents.
There has been a 50 per cent rise in the number of people receiving pets as presents, a PDSA report has revealed.
Findings from the charity's annual PAW Report show that a staggering 1.3 million people have taken on new animals at Christmas with little or no research into what they need to lead healthy, happy lives. In turn this this can lead to stressed, lonely, obese or aggressive pets, say the PDSA.
Furthermore, the report found that 18-24 year olds were twice as likely to have received a pet as a gift compared to any other age group.
Commenting on the worrying findings, Nicola Martin, PDSA head of pet health and welfare, said: “PDSA is urging people to think long and hard before giving a pet as a gift. Our research reflects the nation’s love of pets, but receiving one out of the blue means the recipient is unlikely to be prepared for the commitment they will need to make for the lifetime of that animal.
"Pets become valued and much loved family members but they are a big responsibility. The novelty can quickly wear off if the owner is not fully committed, leading to pets having their welfare needs neglected or even in some cases being abandoned.”
Nicola added: “Many people lead busy lifestyles; and impulse acquisitions mean that some people can be totally unprepared for the responsibility that owning a happy, healthy pet entails. Alongside this, the financial cost of owning a pet is often vastly underestimated, with far more to consider than just the initial purchase price.
"A cat, for example, can cost £17,000 over its lifetime, excluding unexpected vet fees for illness or injury. So it is vital that anyone considering taking on a pet spends time researching and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle, as well as considering the costs and time required to properly care for their new family member.”
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.
